WASHINGTON – One year ago, the United States Supreme Court delivered its decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, overturning the longstanding precedent set by Roe v. Wade that protected access to abortion care. Today, we reflect on the consequences of that decision, which have resulted in the most restrictive abortion bans in our nation’s history, and the potential reactivation of dormant abortion bans that existed before Roe.
Juliet K. Choi, president and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF), shares her thoughts:
“We have already seen the chilling effect of the Dobbs decision on vulnerable communities. The erosion of reproductive rights disproportionately affects Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander women, immigrant women, women of color, and other underserved populations who already face significant barriers to accessing comprehensive and affordable health care.
“Abortion care is an integral part of health care and reproductive justice must be protected for all individuals, irrespective of their background, circumstances or the states that they reside in. As we observe this sorrowful day, APIAHF recommits to protecting and restoring reproductive rights, ensuring that every person has the autonomy to make decisions about their own bodies and lives. We call upon our leaders, at all levels of government, to take a stand and safeguard the rights and well-being of all individuals, upholding the principles of justice, equity, and personal autonomy.”
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The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) influences policy, mobilizes communities and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.